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The grocery retailer has overturned its determination not to offer compensated employment to an autistic man after originally indicating he had to discontinue working at the store where he had volunteered for several years.

Earlier this year, Tom's mother inquired whether her family member Tom Boyd could be given a position at the supermarket in Greater Manchester, but her proposal was ultimately declined by the supermarket's headquarters.

Recently, alternative retailer Asda said it was interested in providing Tom paid shifts at its local branch.

Reacting to the supermarket's reversal, Tom's mother said: "We are going to evaluate the situation and determine whether it is in the optimal outcome for Tom to resume working... and are having ongoing talks with the company."

'Conducting an inquiry'

A spokesman for the retailer said: "We'd like to have Tom return, in compensated work, and are requesting assistance from his loved ones and the non-profit to do so."

"We anticipate to see him back with us very soon."

"We care deeply about helping people into the employment who might otherwise not be offered opportunities."

"Consequently, we enthusiastically received Tom and his support worker into our Cheadle Hulme branch to gain experience and build his confidence."

"We have policies in place to support volunteering, and are investigating the circumstances in Tom's situation."

The parent stated she had been "deeply moved" by how the public had reacted to her sharing her son's experiences.

The young man, who has limited communication skills, was praised for his commitment by managers.

"He contributed over 600 hours of his energy solely because he wanted to belong, be helpful, and create value," stated his mum.

The parent praised and thanked team members at the Manchester branch for helping him, noting: "They welcomed him and were exceptionally supportive."

"I believe he was just flying under the radar - operations were proceeding normally until it went to head office."

Both individuals have been endorsed by local official Andy Burnham.

He posted on online platforms that Tom had received "truly terrible" handling and vowed to "support him to secure alternative employment that functions".

The official stated the local government body "strongly urges every business - including Waitrose - to participate to our recently launched inclusion initiative".

Speaking with Frances, who broke the news of Tom's Asda job offer on BBC Radio Manchester, the elected official stated: "Well done for bringing attention because we must have a significant public information effort here."

She accepted his offer to act as a spokesperson for the program.